2. amps-preamps
  3. 126191-67533

Help me decide on new amp please

I am trying do decide on cost /benefit of two options to upgrade from my current integrated amp.  Presently, I am using a Marantz PM-8005 (70w@8ohm / 100w @4 ohm) IA to drive a pair of Focal 836V speakers which are rated at 91.5db @8 ohm, but dip down to a 3.3 ohm load at around 100 hz. Room is medium sized with no treatments other than wall to wall carpet and upholstered furniture, and music is mostly classic rock, blues, jazz and female vocals.  I listen primarily through a Music Hall MMF 9.1 TT with a Dynavector 10x5 cart. I also listen 20% of the time through a Marantz Sa-8004 SACD player.

I plan to sell the 8005 to offset cost of the replacement IA.  Cost below represent my cost net of selling the 8005. I have two used options ( both in excellent condition) available in my area:

Hegel H100 ( 120w@8 ohm / 22w@4ohm) plus Musical Surroundings Nova Phenomena phono amp - this is a $1,200 option

Marantz PM-11s3 (110w@8ohm / 220w@4 ohm) (built in phono amp) - this is a $2,200 option

Simple question - is the Marantz worth $1,000 more than the Hegel in terms of improvement to SQ, or am I at the point of diminishing returns. I have already spent more than I planned a year ago when I first decided to put a system together, but I have learned a lot since then, so see the value in some upgrade  My hope is that either of these can compensate for the 100hz dip when I want to listen at lower volume levels. I know I like the Marantz sound with the Focals, I am considering the Hegel because so many recommend the brand in combination with Focal speakers. I do not plan on running a sub or replacing speakers in the near future.  The next big move would be a major upgrade of all components and that is not in the cards for now..

 Thanks.

sjtm
auxinput
2,920 posts
 

If you are just looking at the two options (Hegel/Marantz), I would also vote for the Marantz.

The Focal speakers are generally very easy to drive.  However, I don't think the Focal's really do well in the lower frequencies - definitely not as strong/solid as other speakers (such as B&W, etc.)

In general terms and in my experience, the 100Hz dip (due to the speaker's lower impedance at these frequencies) really require a huge amount of amplifier current.  This means, the more power supply you have, the better the amp will support these dips.

That being said, going from 70W to 110W is not a huge step in power.  If it were me, I would actually look at getting a separate high-current amp first and use the 8005 as a preamp.  Something in the 400-500 watt range (maybe even monoblocks).  And then start putting in high-gauge power cords using rhodium plated connectors.  As I have evolved my system over many years, I have had increased bass/midbass each time I focused on increasing amplifier power and power cord configuration.  You are really not going to use all 500 watts, but it is the brute force / current you need to push these bass waveforms at the specific speaker impedance.

mesch
3,481 posts
 
Sorry sjtm, I am embarrassed. Somehow got myself confused. Getting to the age I need to read twice, look both ways 3x, move more slowly. Thanks for calling me out gently. 
kingshead
44 posts
 
I should have mentioned in my previous post, I have absolutely no personal experience with the B&K ST -140 amplifier other than recently considering purchasing one. This led me to investigate the amplifier and was about to pull the trigger when a Belles I serial #260 saw it's way into my home instead. Still wondering if I should pick up the B&K, and from what I've heard the model with the champagne handles is the one to own

Martin
davidavdavid
5 posts
 
Please consider the Parasound Halo 2.1 Integrated Amplifier. AudioAdvisor currently is selling them for $2149.  It was down to a Hegel H 160 or the Parasound and in the end the functionality, versatility and sound of the Parasound sealed the deal for me. 

It is built like a tank so it should last a while.


andrei_nz
192 posts
 
I think you have hit the nail on the head with the low impedance issue of the Focals.  I believe the correct amplifier for you would be the one with the higher current delivery.  Also as davida above suggests you can look further afield.  I have just completed a long journey (about 4 months) in search of a new power amp and Parasound was on my shortlist.
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